A Delicious and Easy Guide to Mediterranean Flavors in Just 25 Minutes!
Cooking with your family can create some of the most beautiful memories especially when the recipe is quick, flavorful, and fun for everyone. Garlic Butter Baked Cod brings you the charm of Mediterranean cuisine without complicated steps or long hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy families looking to enjoy a nutritious, savory meal together while adding a touch of culinary adventure to the dinner table.
With its tender texture and rich garlic butter sauce, this dish combines simple ingredients with extraordinary flavor. Plus, it’s easy enough for kids to help with, whether measuring spices or brushing butter on the cod fillets. Ready in just 25 minutes, this meal ensures quality family time without the fuss, making it a staple for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious Garlic Butter Baked Cod:
For the Cod Fillets:
- 4 fresh or frozen cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or oregano for a variation)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, cut into slices
Optional Substitutions:
- Dairy-free? Use plant-based butter or extra virgin olive oil.
- Gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Prefer a different fish? Swap cod for halibut, haddock, or tilapia.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking with kids can be fun, and this recipe makes it interactive. Here's how to prepare this simple yet flavorful dish:
1. Prep the Cod Fillets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- If using frozen cod, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the garlic butter coat the fish evenly.
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish.
Kid-friendly step: Let the kids brush olive oil over each fillet with a silicone brush.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Drizzle the mixture generously over the cod fillets, ensuring every piece gets coated.
Kid-friendly step: Allow your child to spoon the garlic butter over the fillets perfect for a budding chef.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque in the center.
- During the last 3 minutes, add lemon slices on top for extra zesty flavor.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, couscous, or crusty bread.
Personalization Tip: Let kids sprinkle parsley for the final touch, it’s fun and makes them proud of their contribution!
Estimated Cooking and Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
This quick recipe is perfect for parents juggling busy schedules while still aiming to create nutritious meals for their family.
Nutritional Information
This Garlic Butter Baked Cod isn’t just delicious it’s packed with health benefits that are great for kids and adults alike!
- Calories: 220 per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Vitamin D: High levels for healthy bones
- Omega-3s: Promotes heart and brain health
Cod is a low-calorie, high-protein fish, making it an excellent choice for growing children and health-conscious parents.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this baked cod with sides that complement its buttery, Mediterranean flavor:
- For a Quick Dinner: Serve with steamed green beans and garlic-infused rice.
- For a Light Meal: Pair with a fresh Greek salad or quinoa.
- For Kids: Serve with roasted potatoes and a small bowl of tartar sauce for dipping.
Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid overcooking.
Garlic Butter Baked Cod is more than just a meal, it’s an experience your family will love. The simple process, irresistible flavors, and short cooking time make it the perfect recipe for busy evenings when you want to gather everyone around the dinner table. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce kids to healthy, delicious seafood while making memories in the kitchen.
So why not give this Mediterranean-inspired recipe a try tonight? Cooking with my boys always brings smiles and laughter, and I hope this dish does the same for you and your family.
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Let’s keep creating delicious memories, one dish at a time. Happy cooking!
